On Wednesday, March 3, Governor-General Michaëlle Jean opened the third session of the 40th Parliament with a Speech from the Throne. Entitled A Stronger Canada. A Strong Economy. For Now and for the Future, the speech outlines the government’s priorities for the next session.
At 6000 words, the speech included a host of measures aimed at restoring fiscal balance, stimulating the economy, supporting Canada’s fragile recovery and increasing innovation and competitiveness. The speech also highlights traditional conservative issues such as law and order and support for seniors and veterans, as well as confirming the government’s interest in defending our Arctic sovereignty and developing the North.
Not surprisingly, the economy is confirmed as the government’s top priority. In contrast to the 2009 Throne Speech and budget which was consumed with the immediate and urgent need to deal with the global recession, this year’s speech signals a return, of sorts, to the narrative built by the government since 2006.
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